ARTICLE>> CORYZA: Just the common cold
by Jason Easter, Health Promotion Officer

Coryza is the technical term for the common cold.
The cold is caused by a virus. This is a virus which is able to mutate (change its genetic identity) frequently which is why a cure is so difficult.

It is sometimes very difficult to distinguish between the symptoms of a heavy cold and those of the much rarer virus - influenza. Cold viruses have mutated to about 250 different strains, yet 'flu' viruses are perhaps no more varied than 10-20 strains.

The principal distinct symptoms of the common cold generally begin with nasal or throat discomfort, followed by sneezing, runny nose, and general feeling of being unwell. Characteristically, there is no fever, but fever of 38 to 39°C (100 to 102°F) can occur, especially in infants and children.

As the common cold is due to a viral infection most cases are therefore infectious, so the sufferer should remain at home in the interest of others as well as for his or her own comfort. A cold usually lasts three-to-five days.

Frequent colds may arise as a result of debility, lowered general resistance, adenoids or minor deformities of the nose or throat. Certain families have more than their average share of colds, whether from poorer nutrition or from similarities in their nasal passages. By contrast some people appear to have a high natural immunity.

What is the treatment?
A warm, comfortable environment and measures to avoid direct spread of infection are recommended for all persons. Rest at home is indicated for children, preadolescents, and all those with fever. Analgesics are useful only if there is fever or general aches and pains. Antibiotics do not affect viruses and are not recommended unless a specific bacterial complication develops.

General self care advice:

'Time and Rest is always the Best'.